News story: Update: new immigration and nationality fees

In January, the Home Office introduced legislation to set the maximum amounts it can charge for visa, immigration and nationality applications over the next 4 years. This legislation is now in force.

Today, 26 February, the Home Office laid further legislation in Parliament, which will make changes to specific application fees.

The new legislation will come into effect on 18 March (6 April for the Isle of Man).

The main changes are:

visas linked most closely to economic growth, such as those offered to workers and students, will be increased by 2%

a 2% increase will apply to all visit visas to help maintain the UK’s position as one of the world’s top tourist destinations

an increase of up to 25% will apply to settlement, residence and nationality fees, as these routes deliver the most benefits to successful applicants

an increase of up to 33% for optional premium services offered by the Home Office such as the super premium service and priority visa services overseas

Fees for all sponsorship categories will be held at the current rates.

These changes ensure that the Home Office can achieve a self-funding system, whilst continuing to provide a competitive level of service, and a fees structure that remains attractive to businesses, migrants and visitors.